Abstract

Environmental problems in all major cities of Bangladesh occur due to lack of environmental facilities, such as infrastructure, coupled with the rapid rise in transport demand, industrial growth, construction activities, and open burning. Ever increasing traffic congestion in the streets, use of leaded gasoline, increasing number of two stroke engine vehicles and high content of sulfur in diesel fuel enhance sufferings of the inhabitants of Dhaka City from vehicle emissions. This demands an air quality management study for Dhaka and other major cities. A comprehensive study on air quality problems of Dhaka and other major cities is yet to be undertaken. There is therefore an urgent need to examine the present state of the problem, identify the causes and accordingly develop appropriate technological and management tools. Such investigation will provide knowledge to the urban, environment and transport planners, traffic engineering practitioners and assist policy makers to make both short and long term actions for a better future.

The proposed air quality management tool will review field surveys on monitoring pollutant concentration and data analysis, emission inventories and modeling techniques appropriate to Dhaka. It will also prepare recommendation for appropriate sustainable technology (especially in replacing two stroke engines) for low emission vehicles and alternative fuels, especially lead and sulfur free lubricants (such as CNG, LPG, etc), and review benefit-cost and cost effectiveness analysis.